In 2008, Marvel Studios released the first of many film adaptations of their own comic book properties. With “Iron Man,” the legendary publisher took great care in making sure the summer blockbuster did the source material justice, and succeeded with flying colors (red and gold, primarily). Those who stayed after the credits were treated to a short scene showcasing Samuel L. Jackson as a mysterious man with an eye patch saying something about an “Avengers Initiative.” With that moment, comic fans everywhere collectively shit a massive brick made of tremendous excitement and towering expectations. Four years later, Marvel Studios has delivered on their promise of an Avengers film. Was it even remotely possible for them to meet the staggering expectations of their fans? Find out after the break!

There are a ton of big names in metal that we hear about all the time but somehow never manage to look into, and for me that big name was always Amon Amarth. I have friends that have liked them forever, I’ve seen people sport their hoodies at shows, I’ve seen their albums on store shelves, and every time I made a mental note to listen to the band, but never followed through in doing so. A few weeks ago, the Swedish natives released their eighth studio album, Surtur Rising. After so many years of passing this band up, I finally decided to give them a shot, and I’m very glad I did.